Country Side tour

Discover the authentic side of Zihuatanejo with a private countryside tour that takes you beyond the beaches and resorts. For around four to five hours, you’ll explore lush coconut plantations, see how local bricks and tiles are made, and savor a homemade-style lunch in a peaceful setting. At $100 per person, it offers an intimate look at rural Mexico, guided by locals eager to share their stories and traditions.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the chance to visit places you’d otherwise never find on your own—like a traditional brick and roof tile factory—and the personalized attention that comes from a private tour. Plus, the included hotel pickup means you won’t have to worry about finding your way.

Of course, there’s a small caveat: the coconut plantation might feel a bit average, and some visitors might find the tour a little overpriced for what’s offered, especially if expectations aren’t managed. But if you’re curious about local craftsmanship and regional foods, this trip could be a genuine highlight.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy slow-paced, authentic experiences and aren’t fussed about a perfectly polished presentation. If you’re eager to learn about everyday life in the countryside, sample regional flavors, and have a guide’s knowledge at your fingertips, this tour will meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience: Visit coconut plantations and a tile-making factory, far from tourist crowds.
• Personalized tour: Private setting allows for a flexible, relaxed pace and plenty of questions.
• Regional cuisine: Enjoy a traditional lunch with fish, chicken, or quesadillas, with one drink included.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the day seamless.
• Limited crowd: Only your group participates, offering a more intimate encounter.
• Mixed reviews: Some find it a bit overpriced and the coconut farm average, but guides like Carlos are praised for their knowledge.

A Closer Look at the Zihuatanejo Countryside Tour

If you’re yearning to see a side of Mexico that feels genuine and off-the-beaten-path, this private countryside tour is worth considering. It’s designed to bring you into the heart of rural life, with visits to places that reveal how locals work, live, and eat. We’ll walk through each stop, highlighting what makes these moments meaningful—and where they might fall short.

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Initial Drive

The tour begins early at 9:00 am with a pickup from your hotel. That’s a real plus, meaning you start the day relaxed and focused on the experience ahead. The drive southward is your first glimpse into the lush, tropical landscape that sustains the region. This part of the trip sets a calm, scenic tone, and you’ll be able to settle into the journey without worrying about logistics.

First Stop: Barra de Potosi Playa Achiotes and Coconut Plantation

Your first destination is a coconut plantation, where your guide will show you different tropical fruits native to the region. Here, we loved the opportunity to see how local resources are cultivated and used—something you’d miss if exploring solo. The plantation offers a chance to see the different stages of coconut growth and sample some regional tropical fruits, which is a delightful way to connect with the environment.

However, some reviewers felt the coconut farm was somewhat average. One noted, “Coconut farm was average,” but still appreciated the demo provided by the guide. If you’re expecting a lush, picture-perfect plantation, this may not quite meet that high expectation, but it’s still an insightful peek into everyday farming life.

Second Stop: Brick and Roof Tile Factory

Next, you’ll visit a local brick and roof tile factory, where you can watch artisans craft bricks and tiles by hand. This stop scores points for its authenticity and craftsmanship, giving you an understanding of traditional building materials that are still in use today. It’s a fascinating contrast to the mass-produced options we see elsewhere.

One reviewer found this part “different” and appreciated learning about the local techniques. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how local architecture is built from the ground up, which adds a tangible local flavor to your trip.

Lunch at Barra de Potosi

The highlight for many is the traditional lunch on the beach, with options like fish, chicken, or quesadillas—you pick your favorite. Lunch is served in a relaxed, beachfront setting, and one drink is included, making it perfect to unwind after the morning’s explorations.

While some found the meal very good, others felt it was a bit basic. Still, the chance to enjoy regional cuisine in a peaceful setting is a definite plus. The combination of good food and scenic views makes it a memorable part of the day.

Flexibility and Personal Questions

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the ability to ask your guide as many questions as you like. The guides, especially Carlos, are praised for their knowledge and willingness to go beyond the basics, such as helping visitors find items at the Mercado Municipal or explaining native plants.

Considerations and Limitations

The tour is priced at $100, which can seem steep for some, especially considering the coconut plantation wasn’t rated highly by all. Some reviews suggest it might feel overpriced given the experience, particularly if you’re expecting a highly picturesque or expansive plantation.

Also, the tour’s physical demands are moderate—standing, walking, and some light activity—so travelers with limited mobility might want to plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in seeing the everyday life of rural Mexico, tasting regional dishes, and learning from personable guides, this tour offers real value. It’s ideal if you’re curious about local craftsmanship, like tile-making, or want a more relaxed way to explore beyond the beaches. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a slow pace and enjoy genuine, small-scale experiences.

However, if you’re expecting a lush, visually stunning coconut plantation or an elaborate tour, you might find it somewhat underwhelming. The tour’s strength is its authenticity and personalized approach, making it well-suited for those seeking a deeper, more meaningful connection with the region.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Coconut Plantation and Tropical Fruits

The tour starts with a drive to a coconut plantation, where your guide will point out various tropical fruits, sharing stories about how locals use natural resources in their daily lives. We appreciated the chance to ask questions and learn about regional agriculture firsthand. It’s a gentle introduction to rural life, with the plantation providing a lush, green backdrop for the morning.

Brick and Roof Tile Factory

Next, you visit a local manufacturing site where artisans craft bricks and roof tiles by hand. Watching the process, you see how traditional techniques persist in the modern world, adding a tangible layer to your understanding of local architecture. It’s a quiet, almost meditative experience, demonstrating skills passed down through generations.

Lunch at Barra de Potosi

The beachfront restaurant offers simple but tasty regional dishes—fish, chicken, or quesadillas—paired with a drink. The setting is relaxed, perfect for soaking in the ocean breeze and reflecting on the morning’s discoveries. Many reviewers remarked on the good quality of the food and the friendly atmosphere.

Optional: Exploring Further

Some travelers take time to stroll along the beach after lunch or explore nearby shops. Since the tour is private, you can customize the pace to suit your interests.

Practical Information

This tour is priced at $100 per person, a fair value considering the private setting, hotel pickup, and the personalized guidance. It lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. The tour begins at 9:00 am, allowing for a relaxed morning and avoiding the midday heat.

The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and light activity. The private nature means you can ask questions freely, and guides tend to go beyond the script to make your visit memorable.

Booking about 23 days in advance is typical, so plan ahead to secure your spot. Keep in mind that the experience is weather-dependent—poor weather could lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

The Sum Up

The Country Side tour outside Zihuatanejo offers a genuine slice of local life, with visits to coconut plantations, tile factories, and a scenic beachfront lunch. Its strength lies in the personalized guidance and authentic experiences, making it ideal for travelers wanting to connect more deeply with Mexico’s rural traditions.

While it might not satisfy those seeking lush scenery or elaborate attractions, it provides a meaningful insight into the region’s craftsmanship and everyday rural activities. The knowledge shared by guides like Carlos enhances the experience, and many visitors leave feeling more connected to the local culture.

If you’re a curious traveler who values local stories, regional flavors, and a relaxed pace, this tour will be a rewarding choice. It’s best suited for those who appreciate small-group, personalized outings that go beyond typical sightseeing.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers are offered, making it convenient and stress-free to start your day.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 4 to 5 hours, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional lunch with a choice of fish, chicken, or quesadillas is included, along with one drink.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private tour, so only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.

What is the physical difficulty of the tour?
It requires moderate physical activity—some walking and standing—so it’s suitable for most travelers with average mobility.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s private, you can ask your guide questions and adjust some aspects of the pace, but the main stops are fixed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible and low-risk if your plans change.

This countryside adventure in Zihuatanejo offers a balanced mix of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and good food—all shared in an intimate setting. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, it’s a good way to see the real Mexico that few travelers get to experience.